Find your path with "What
the Buddha Taught"
Asha Dey
As a person on a spiritual quest,I
have read many books on philosophy and religion, trying to understand and
assimilate the teachings to connect with my innerself. While, some provided me
withhidden gems of wisdom, some guided me towards my path. But,reading
DrWalpola Sri Rahula’s ‘What the Buddha Taught’ helped me find aninstantconnect
with my true self, with humancapacity, and Buddhist teachings in its
truest essence.
Considered a classic introductory
book to Buddhism, the allure of What the Buddha Taught’ lies in the
illustrations of the original Pali texts,including the Dhammapada and the
Suttas. The book is based on the
basicteachings of the Buddha, as found in theTipitaka or Pali Canon. It
expounds on the Buddhist philosophies of fournoble truths, the middle
path,no-soul or anatta, meditation, along with focusing on the relevance of
Buddhism in today’s world.
Reading ‘What the Buddha Taught’
felt like reconnecting with some familiartruths that were ying dormant in the
subconscious mind, such as connecting with one’s self, being mindful aboutyour
surrounding, living in the present moment, Karma and the concept of no-self.
What is interesting to note is that
the book is not a treatise on Buddhism, but focuses on putting
Buddhistphilosophies into practice. In fact, Dr. Rahula covers an entire
chapter on practical approach to Buddhism, emphasising on meditation.
Thesimplicity with which Dr.Rahula acquaints the reader with
anapanasati(mindfulness of breathing), it becomes easier for the readersto
assimilate such a technique in their dailylives as well. Further the author
focuses on developing mindfulnessin our actions, along with teachings to reflect
during meditative mind states, which includes the seven factors ofenlightenment
and the five hindrances.
Someone on a quest to find their
inner-self will find this wonderful introductory book on the Buddha’s teachings
a great resource to referto on a constant basis. It inspires the
readers to continue their quest to
findanswers to the elementary question of seeking the essence of life.
Personally,it provided a deluge of answers, andcalmed my inner self. For
others, it may mean starting a new journey.This book could have different
effects on different people, considering the distance they have walked on their
path to find themselves. But, one thing is for sure, it would certainly be
amilestone in their lives!.
About the author:
A compulsive writer, a mad thinker,
a marooned traveller, and an accidental photographer,
Asha Dey is also the
Senior Editor of WisdomWinds. Follow
her on Twitter @deyasha18.
#Buddha #Buddhism #Zen #Life #Lifestyle #wisdomwinds
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